Abstract

This paper argues the case for the establishment of a global accord for the postgraduate learning journey of engineers in a globalized and complex world. The establishment of agreements covering educational qualifications in engineering and competence standards for practicing engineers such as the Washington Accord in 1989 and APEC Engineer agreement in 1999 have resulted in increased engineering mobility and improved global standards, especially as related to entry level engineering curricular requirements. However, one could suggest that the capability to perform provided by these competencies agreements do not ensure the professional development of engineers are complementary and adequate for them to perform in an increasing complex, globalised and constantly changing engineering world. New scientific and engineering discovery are pushing the boundary of engineering applications, particularly in complex systems and interdisciplinary engineered solutions. Recent engineering disasters and mistakes are exemplary to illustrate this tenet that a global accord is required for engineers to not just improve their appreciation and understanding of complex systems and contexts within their respective disciplinary knowledge, but also should require one to be competent in the new knowledge of the global world.